Now that the season is over, Northstar is preparing all of its summer activities to keep you happy and occupied through the long, summer days. The golf course is due to open in May and the bike and hike park swings into action on Friday, June 15 at 10 a.m. This, of course, is weather permitting, because if last year is anything to go off, it may still be dusting us with powder. But if all goes according to schedule, here is what you can expect:
Bike and hike opening dayNorthstar is home to Northern California’s largest lift-served mountain biking and hiking park, which will keep your winter adrenalin pumping throughout summer. The park opens on June 15 on weekends only (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) and then from June 29 it is open daily from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. You will have access to downhill and cross-country mountain biking, hiking and sightseeing.
BikingYou will not find a larger mountain bike park in Northern California than at Northstar. LiveWire, Northstar’s signature trail, is the first fully irrigated mountain bike trail and a must for the more advanced rider. Each trail has a difficulty symbol specified on the trail map making it easy for riders to plan a route to their level.
Bike AcademyThe Northstar Bike Academy accommodates all levels of bikers, from beginner to seasoned. They provide guidance for those wishing to learn or just wishing to improve technique. The academy offers a variety of packages from group lessons to private classes and clinics. There are also camps held through out the season to help bring bikers to their next level.
HikingHiking in Tahoe during Spring and Summer is a must. You will discover breathtaking scenery and wonderful smells surrounded by the healthy flora and fauna of Northstar. As with biking, hiking trails range from easy to advanced with scenic lift rides on offer for sightseeing and hiking. Leashed dogs are welcome on the mountain and on several chair lifts. Geocache boxes can be found all over Northstar too, so don’t forget to bring something to trade into those treasure troves.
Lake Tahoe in summer time is an entirely different experience to winter and one not to miss out on. The scenery is beautiful, the lake shimmers a multitude of wondrous colors and the daily activities are as endless as the days are long. You can hike, bike, paddleboard, kayak, wakeboard, waterski, fish, camp, raft, golf, horse ride, frolick on the beach, swim in the shallows of the lake, snorkel, build sandcastles, sunbathe, eat barbecued food, sip wine, drink beer, and relax. Wow, I'm excited.
See you on the mountain,
-- Kate Thomas